Mum guilt is something I hear all my friends that are parents talk about. And I get it. As much as a non parent can.

But I want to talk about non-mum guilt. And not the type you are thinking about.

When I’m feeling flat, low or sick, I get to rest and fill my tank. And sometimes I feel guilty I get to do that. When I’m not at work, I can binge comfort shows, knit and read to my hearts content, go for slow walks in nature, watch the ocean. Pass on cooking and eat boiled eggs for dinner. Meanwhile all my friends have to struggle through parenting and keeping small humans, fed, clothed, clean, schooled and alive when they feel like sh1t. They don’t get to look after themselves in the way that I do.

I know I shouldn’t feel guilty but I go. Is that patriarchy that’s done a number on me? Conditioned me to believe I should care for others above myself? Optimisation and productivity culture? I’m sure it’s all this, and more.

Do you feel non mum guilt like this? Or if you’re a parent, what’s your take on this guilt?

(Token favourite snap from this week, my doggo playing medicine dog during a long migraine)